Newcastle's Season in Shambles: A Campaign of Missed Opportunities

If Newcastle had held on to the points they lost from winning positions, they would be second in the league. Dropping just half of those points would have placed them fifth. Eddie Howe describes this trend as a "blight" on their season, with the team having dropped a league-high 25 points from leading positions. Newcastle must reverse this trend, having lost seven of their last 10 matches, with their European status and Howe's future hanging in the balance. Meanwhile, Tottenham's poor form has raised concerns about their ability to stay in the Premier League, with only a few teams having experienced longer winless runs at the start of a calendar year without being relegated. Sunderland, on the other hand, have impressed as a newly-promoted side, doing the basics well and boasting a strong home defensive record. Nottingham Forest's lack of cutting edge at home has been a persistent issue, with only 14 of their 32 Premier League goals coming at the City Ground. Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins is struggling to find conviction in front of goal, having missed 43 big chances since the start of last season. Jean-Philippe Mateta has revitalized his Crystal Palace career, scoring three goals in two games after returning from injury, and is once again a key player for the team.